What do after having your appendix removed?
Immediately After Surgery
- You will usually stay in the hospital for 1-3 days after having your appendix removed.
- During this time, you will be monitored for complications and given pain medication.
- You may also receive intravenous (IV) fluids to help prevent dehydration.
- You will be encouraged to drink plenty of fluids and walk around as soon as possible to help speed up your recovery.
At Home
- Once you are discharged from the hospital, you will need to continue to take it easy for several weeks.
- You should avoid strenuous activity, lifting heavy objects, and taking baths until your incisions have completely healed.
- You should also follow your doctor's instructions for showering and changing your bandages.
Pain Management
- You may experience some pain after surgery, but it should gradually improve over time.
- You can take over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, to help manage your pain.
- If your pain is severe or does not improve after a few days, contact your doctor.
Diet
- You may experience some nausea and vomiting after surgery.
- Once your symptoms improve, you can start eating a regular diet.
- Avoid eating high-fiber foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, until your bowel movements are back to normal.
Follow-Up Care
- You will need to see your doctor for follow-up appointments several times after surgery.
- This will allow your doctor to monitor your progress and ensure that you are healing properly.